As the leaves start to fall and the air grows crisp, our thoughts turn to warm, comforting dishes that evoke the cozy feelings of autumn. And what’s more quintessentially autumnal than pumpkin? The versatile gourd is a staple in many cuisines around the world, but for Indian cooks, it’s a particularly special ingredient. When combined with the bold spices and rich flavors characteristic of Indian cuisine, pumpkin becomes something truly magical.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 spicy pumpkin recipes that showcase the best of India’s culinary tradition. From curries to stews, breads to desserts, these dishes will delight your taste buds and leave you feeling cozy and satisfied. So grab a cup of hot chai and let’s dive into the world of Indian pumpkin delights!
Pumpkin Coconut Curry
This comforting curry combines the natural sweetness of pumpkin with the rich flavors of coconut milk and a blend of warming spices, perfect for a cozy fall or winter meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add pumpkin and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
5. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: About 30-40 minutes
Spiced Pumpkin Dal
This comforting and aromatic Spiced Pumpkin Dal is a perfect blend of Indian spices and seasonal pumpkin. This recipe is a twist on the classic lentil curry, adding a hint of warm cinnamon and nutmeg to create a unique flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium-sized pumpkin (about 1 lb), peeled, seeded, and diced
– 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. In a large pan, heat the ghee or oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Add the diced pumpkin and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Drain and add the soaked lentils to the pan with the water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over basmati rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pumpkin Halwa
Celebrate the flavors of fall with this creamy and comforting Pumpkin Halwa recipe, perfect for a cozy evening treat or special occasion dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine pumpkin puree, milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the halwa thickens slightly and leaves the sides of the pan clean.
3. Remove from heat and stir in ghee, cardamom, and salt until well combined.
4. Pour the Pumpkin Halwa into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pumpkin Sabzi
This recipe brings together the warmth of roasted pumpkin with the comfort of aromatic spices, creating a delicious and nutritious side dish or main course. Perfect for fall gatherings or cozy meals.
Ingredients:
• 1 medium-sized pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss pumpkin cubes with olive oil, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and salt until well coated.
3. Spread the pumpkin mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender and lightly caramelized.
5. Remove from the oven and stir in diced onion and minced garlic.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pumpkin Chana Masala
This Pumpkin Chana Masala recipe combines the warm, comforting flavors of North Indian cuisine with the natural sweetness of roasted pumpkin. The result is a deliciously aromatic and slightly spicy curry that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz)
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups water
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss pumpkin cubes with 1 tablespoon oil and roast for 30 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pan, sauté onions and garlic in remaining 1 tablespoon oil until softened.
4. Add chickpeas, cumin, curry powder, garam masala, and cayenne pepper to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in roasted pumpkin, salt, and water.
6. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
7. Garnish with cilantro and serve over basmati rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pumpkin Biryani
This recipe combines the warm spices of traditional biryani with the comforting flavors of roasted pumpkin, creating a unique and flavorful dish perfect for fall.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss pumpkin with 1 tablespoon ghee and roast for 30 minutes.
2. In a large pot, heat remaining 1 tablespoon ghee. Add onions and cook until golden brown.
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add roasted pumpkin, rice, and water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until rice is cooked.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro or scallions.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pumpkin Paratha
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this sweet and savory Pumpkin Paratha recipe, perfect for a cozy evening or as a unique addition to your lunchbox.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup ghee or oil
– 1/2 cup cooked pumpkin puree
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds (optional)
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Add ghee or oil and mix until the dough comes together.
3. Gradually add pumpkin puree, sugar, and cumin seeds (if using). Mix well.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, adding water as needed to achieve a smooth consistency.
5. Divide the dough into 6-8 portions and roll each portion into a ball.
6. Flatten each ball into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
7. Cook the parathas on a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat for 30-40 seconds per side.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on the number of parathas)
Pumpkin Rasam
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Pumpkin Rasam, a flavorful and nutritious Indian-inspired soup that’s perfect for fall and winter seasons.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened (5 minutes).
2. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add pumpkin cubes and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pumpkin is tender.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Pumpkin Kootu
A flavorful and comforting South Indian-inspired side dish, Pumpkin Kootu is a perfect accompaniment to rice or roti.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked pumpkin (fresh or canned)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2-3 green chilies, slit
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Add grated ginger, cumin, turmeric, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add cooked pumpkin and stir well to combine with the spice mixture.
5. Add green chilies and adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Kootu!
Pumpkin Thepla
Experience the flavors of fall with this unique twist on traditional Indian flatbreads, featuring roasted pumpkin and aromatic spices. Perfect as a snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup ghee or vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup roasted pumpkin puree (see note)
– 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flours, salt, and baking powder.
2. Add ghee or oil and mix until the dough comes together.
3. Knead for 5 minutes, then rest for 10 minutes.
4. Divide into 6-8 portions.
5. Roll out each portion into a thin circle.
6. Brush with water, then sprinkle with pumpkin puree, cilantro, cumin, and coriander.
7. Fold in half to form a triangle or shape as desired.
8. Cook on a non-stick skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per batch
Pumpkin Sambar
Experience the warm, comforting flavors of India with this simple recipe for Pumpkin Sambar. This popular South Indian dish is a staple during the autumn and winter seasons, when pumpkins are in season.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add onion, garlic, pumpkin cubes, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and red chili powder. Cook until the onions are translucent.
4. Add water to the pan and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pumpkin is tender.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Serve hot with steaming rice or roti.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pumpkin Payasam
Payasam is a popular Indian dessert made with milk, sugar, and flavorings. This recipe for Pumpkin Payasam adds a seasonal twist by incorporating roasted pumpkin puree into the mixture.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pumpkin puree (roasted and cooled)
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1/4 teaspoon ghee or unsalted butter
– Chopped nuts or dried fruits for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, cardamom powder, and saffron mixture. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture comes to a simmer.
2. Reduce heat to low and add pumpkin puree. Stir well to combine.
3. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the payasam thickens slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in ghee or butter until melted.
5. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Allow to cool before refrigerating or freezing.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pumpkin Bharta
A flavorful and aromatic Indian-inspired dish that combines roasted pumpkin with aromatic spices, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 small to medium-sized pumpkin (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the pumpkin in half and scoop out the seeds.
3. Place the pumpkin halves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cut side up.
4. Roast the pumpkin for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
5. Heat the ghee or oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
6. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent.
7. Add the minced garlic, cumin, coriander, and turmeric powder. Cook for 1 minute.
8. Mash the roasted pumpkin with a fork until slightly smooth.
9. Add the cooked onion mixture to the mashed pumpkin. Season with salt to taste.
10. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pumpkin Pakora
This recipe brings together the flavors of pumpkin, spices, and crispy fried dough to create a delicious and addictive snack. Perfect for a fall evening or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 1 lb), peeled and cubed
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, salt, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper.
2. Add the cubed pumpkin to the dry mixture and toss until well coated.
3. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Using a slotted spoon, carefully add the pumpkin mixture to the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd.
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, flipping occasionally.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes total.
Pumpkin Dosa
Pumpkin Dosa Recipe: A Twist on Traditional Indian Street Food
Pumpkin Laddoo
A sweet and nutritious treat perfect for the fall season, Pumpkin Laddoo is a popular Indian dessert made with roasted pumpkin, nuts, and spices. This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked and mashed pumpkin
– 1/2 cup chopped cashews or almonds
– 1 tablespoon ghee or unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon cardamom powder
– Pinch of salt
– Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a pan, heat the ghee or butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped nuts and sauté until lightly toasted.
3. Mix in the mashed pumpkin, sugar, cardamom powder, and salt.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly.
5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
6. Shape into small balls or patties and garnish with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (includes cooling time)
Pumpkin Chutney
Elevate your snacks and meals with this flavorful and aromatic Pumpkin Chutney, perfect for the fall season! This recipe is a great way to use up roasted pumpkin and adds a delightful twist to traditional chutneys.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked pumpkin (roasted or canned)
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup green chili peppers, seeded and chopped
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine cooked pumpkin, cilantro, green chili peppers, onion, and garlic.
2. Blend until smooth, adding lemon juice, cumin, salt, and water as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
4. Cook over low heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until chutney reaches desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Pumpkin Upma
Get ready to warm up with a delicious and comforting Indian-inspired breakfast dish – Pumpkin Upma! This recipe combines the flavors of roasted pumpkin, spices, and semolina to create a hearty and nutritious breakfast option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup semolina (upma)
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the ghee or oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add the pumpkin puree and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Gradually add the water or broth to the pumpkin mixture, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the semolina to the pan, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the upma is cooked and creamy.
7. Season with salt to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pumpkin Bonda
A twist on traditional Indian snack, Pumpkin Bonda is a delicious and easy-to-make treat that combines the warmth of pumpkin with the crunch of fried dough. Perfect for a quick afternoon pick-me-up or as a healthy snack option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked, mashed pumpkin
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– Water, as needed
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine the mashed pumpkin, flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add water to form a smooth dough. Cover and let it rest for 15 minutes.
3. Divide the dough into small portions and shape each into a ball.
4. Flatten each ball slightly into a disk shape.
5. Heat the ghee or oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
6. Fry the pumpkin bondas until they’re golden brown, about 2-3 minutes on each side.
7. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pumpkin Poriyal
Pumpkin poriyal is a popular South Indian dish made with roasted pumpkin, spices, and herbs. This recipe is a twist on the traditional version, using fresh pumpkin and a blend of aromatic spices to create a flavorful and nutritious side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for 10 seconds.
5. Add the pumpkin cubes, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Stir well.
6. Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the pumpkin is tender and lightly browned.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your fall cooking with these 20 delicious Indian-inspired pumpkin recipes! From classic dishes like Pumpkin Coconut Curry and Spiced Pumpkin Dal, to sweet treats like Pumpkin Halwa and Pumpkin Payasam, there’s something for everyone. Try making Pumpkin Sabzi or Pumpkin Chana Masala for a flavorful and filling main course. Or, indulge in some crispy Pumpkin Pakora or warm Pumpkin Dosa as a snack. Whether you’re looking for a comforting bowl of Pumpkin Rasam or a sweet treat like Pumpkin Laddoo, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
